Italian hotel upgrades fire safety with Hochiki Latitude system

Installation of Hochiki fire detection technology in Verona hotel

Hochiki Europe has reported that Hotel Montresor Tower in Bussolengo, near Verona, Italy, has upgraded its fire detection and alarm system with the company’s Latitude life safety platform.

The installation formed part of a wider refurbishment project at the four-star venue.

Hochiki Europe stated that installer TOLA & C. SRL fitted a Latitude 8 loop control panel, along with voice alarm devices, call points, and ESP sensors.

According to Hochiki Europe, the Latitude system was selected for its programming features and Hotel Mode function, which enables controlled alarm delays to reduce unnecessary disruption in guest rooms while maintaining compliance with safety requirements.

The company added that to maintain the venue’s appearance, black finished ESP detectors were installed in the renovated conference centre.

Compliance with Italian fire safety standards

Hochiki Europe said that the upgrade included replacing older sensors with ESP range devices to meet Italian standard UNI11224.

The company explained that the standard requires fire detection system components to be upgraded every 12 years to maintain performance and reliability.

Hochiki Europe noted that the change ensures the hotel’s system remains compliant with national safety legislation.

It added that the upgrade also aligns with the hotel’s operational goals for long-term safety management.

Statement from hotel director

Hotel director Luca Montresor said: “We’ve been extremely satisfied with Hochiki’s technology over the years—it’s reliable, easy to maintain, and straightforward for our staff to operate. When it was time to expand and refurbish, there was no question we’d stay with Hochiki for the new system too”

According to Hochiki Europe, this continuation of the supplier relationship reflects the hotel’s satisfaction with the system’s operational history.

The company added that ease of use was a key factor in the decision.

System integration and design considerations

Hochiki Europe stated that combining the Latitude panel with ESP devices allowed the hotel to improve operational efficiency while maintaining a consistent visual design.

It said that the system was integrated into both guest areas and event spaces without altering the building’s interior aesthetics.

The company noted that the installation was designed to support both day-to-day operations and emergency readiness.

It added that the upgrade forms part of a broader strategy to prepare the venue for future needs.

Functional advantages of Hochiki Latitude system

Hochiki Europe explained that the Hotel Mode function on the Latitude platform enables time delays in certain areas to avoid unnecessary evacuations.

The company said that these delays are configured to meet all relevant safety regulations.

It added that the system’s programming flexibility allows the hotel to tailor settings for different parts of the building.

Hochiki Europe also stated that the ESP sensors’ design supports aesthetic integration in spaces with specific visual requirements.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

This installation illustrates how hospitality venues can combine compliance with national fire safety standards and operational considerations such as guest experience.

It demonstrates the role of configurable system features, such as Hotel Mode, in balancing safety with operational needs.

The project also shows the importance of regular system upgrades to meet legislative requirements and maintain performance.

Italian hotel upgrades fire safety with Hochiki Latitude system: Summary

Hochiki Europe reported that Hotel Montresor Tower in Bussolengo, Italy, has upgraded its fire detection system with the Latitude platform.

The upgrade included a Latitude 8 loop control panel, voice alarm devices, call points, and ESP sensors.

The system was installed by TOLA & C. SRL as part of a hotel refurbishment.

Hochiki Europe stated that the system’s Hotel Mode allows controlled alarm delays in guest rooms while meeting safety requirements.

Black finished ESP detectors were installed in the renovated conference centre to maintain visual design.

Older sensors were replaced with ESP range devices to comply with Italian standard UNI11224.

The standard requires upgrades every 12 years to maintain reliability and performance.

Hotel director Luca Montresor said the decision to continue using Hochiki technology was based on past positive experience.

Hochiki Europe stated that the upgrade improves operational efficiency and maintains interior aesthetics.

The company added that the installation supports long-term safety and operational goals.

Hochiki fire detection system installed at Cardiff Bay

Hochiki installation supports mixed-use redevelopment in Wales

Hochiki Europe has reported the installation of its ESP Addressable fire detection system at Scott Harbour, a redeveloped site in Cardiff Bay.

According to Hochiki Europe, the 90,000 sq ft former office building has been converted into 78 homes and retail units by Rightacres Property Company Limited.

The manufacturer stated that the development needed a detection system that could accommodate both residential and commercial spaces.

It said the ESP system was specified by Huvo and installed by P.E.S. Fire and Security.

The installation included integrated alarm zoning, automatic vent controls, and aesthetic compatibility with the refurbished interior.

System adapted to support layout changes

Hochiki Europe stated that the ESP system was selected for its capacity to operate across different functional areas while enabling ongoing reconfiguration.

The manufacturer said it was designed to provide zoned alarm coverage that can be adjusted without new wiring.

The company explained that this feature supports future changes in tenancy or internal layout.

According to P.E.S. Fire and Security, the flexible design removed the need for repeated system rewiring.

Martin Truscott, Managing Director at P.E.S. Fire and Security, said: “Hochiki’s ESP range made installation remarkably easy, especially when faced with the continual changes to the layout. This flexibility allowed us to adapt to the projects evolving requirements, without needing a complete redesign of the overall system wiring.”

Heat detection and AOV control in apartments

The system includes heat detectors installed near apartment entrances to monitor escape routes.

Hochiki said these devices interface directly with automatic opening vents (AOVs), activating them in the event of a fire.

It added that the use of heat detectors, rather than smoke detectors, was intended to reduce false alarms in the residential parts of the development.

This configuration was designed to preserve clear evacuation routes without causing disruption to residents.

According to the company, these measures reflect the differing needs of a mixed-use building.

Integration with wider building services

Hochiki Europe stated that the detection system was fully integrated with Building Management Systems and safety infrastructure.

This included sprinkler controls, pump activation, access control systems, and solar PV technology.

The manufacturer said the aim was to provide a single coordinated fire response strategy across the entire development.

It added that this approach improves safety management across residential and commercial zones.

The integration was designed to enable simultaneous response to fire events and to limit manual intervention.

Installation suited to design-sensitive interiors

Hochiki said that devices from the ESP Addressable range were chosen to align with the interior design.

It reported that product selection prioritised discretion, allowing detectors and sounders to blend with the refurbished aesthetic.

This was considered particularly important in a high-profile redevelopment intended to provide affordable housing.

The system was also configured to minimise disruption to future tenants, according to the company.

Hochiki stated that visual impact and placement of devices were considered during installation planning.

System designed to reduce false alarms

The company said that reducing false alarm incidents was a key part of the system’s configuration.

Hochiki explained that this was especially relevant due to the building’s mixed residential and commercial use.

It added that the ESP system includes design features aimed at stable performance in varied environments.

The manufacturer said that future maintenance demands were also considered during specification.

It added that the project reflects broader goals around long-term safety and efficient building reuse.

Hochiki fire detection system installed at Cardiff Bay: Summary

Hochiki Europe reported the installation of its ESP Addressable fire detection system at Scott Harbour in Cardiff Bay.

The development was led by Rightacres Property Company Limited.

It involved converting a 90,000 sq ft office building into 78 homes and commercial units.

P.E.S. Fire and Security completed the installation.

Huvo was responsible for system specification.

The fire detection system includes zoning, AOV interfacing, and BMS integration.

It supports layout flexibility without requiring rewiring.

Heat detectors were placed to safeguard corridor escape routes.

The system integrates with sprinklers, pumps, and solar PV.

It was configured to reduce false alarms.

Device design was chosen to match the refurbished interior.

Installation supports future tenant changes and maintenance access.

Hochiki said the system reflects ESG principles through building reuse.

The company said the system would provide long-term reliability.

Hochiki Europe donates match tickets to Medway Soccer Academy

Football ticket competition supports Gillingham youth initiative

Hochiki Europe has reported that it awarded 35 tickets to a Gillingham FC home match to Medway Soccer Academy as part of its “Golden Ticket” competition.

The grassroots academy, based in Gillingham, Kent, was selected for its provision of affordable football sessions for local children.

The initiative was founded in 2019 by Matt Waters and operates on a £4 “pay and play” model.

Hochiki team visit academy training with Gillingham FC player

Hochiki Europe stated that Marketing Manager Craig Taylor and Marketing Project Specialist Kara Martin visited the academy during a training session held at a local community park.

They were joined by Gillingham FC midfielder Ethan Coleman.

According to the company, Coleman spent over an hour speaking with children and coaches, discussing his professional experience and responding to questions from the group.

The children reportedly asked about Coleman’s pre-match routines, football inspirations and personal interests.

Parents highlight academy’s affordability and impact

Hochiki Europe said that Kara Martin also spoke with parents in attendance at the training session.

The parents reportedly described the academy as an important activity for families who could not commit to regular team schedules.

They also emphasised the academy’s role in improving children’s confidence and social engagement.

Martin said: “Matt’s unwavering commitment to the community is inspiring.

“Many of these children would otherwise miss out on the experience of a live football match.”

Training session ends with raffle and ticket presentation

Hochiki Europe reported that the visit concluded with a penalty shootout involving academy participants.

Children who scored during the shootout were entered into a raffle to win a future Gillingham FC training experience.

The company stated that Ethan Coleman presented Matt Waters with a golden envelope containing the 35 tickets to the Gillingham FC vs Swindon Town match, which took place on 26 April.

Matt Waters said: “We are incredibly grateful to Hochiki Europe for this amazing opportunity.

“This means the world to our children, many of whom have never experienced a live football game.

“It’s a testament to the hard work of our volunteer coaches and the dedication of our young players.”

Hochiki Europe donates match tickets to Medway Soccer Academy: Summary

Hochiki Europe donated 35 match tickets to Medway Soccer Academy through its “Golden Ticket” competition.

The academy was founded in 2019 by Matt Waters and offers £4 “pay and play” sessions for local children.

The donation was awarded during a visit from Hochiki staff and Gillingham FC midfielder Ethan Coleman.

Coleman spoke with children and coaches about his football career.

Parents at the session said the academy provides accessible and supportive activities for local families.

The event included a penalty shootout and a raffle for a future training experience.

The 35 tickets were for the Gillingham FC vs Swindon Town match on 26 April.

Waters said the donation recognised the work of the volunteer coaches and young players.

Hochiki Europe is the Rainham End sponsor of Gillingham Football Club.

Hochiki to deliver regional fire safety seminars with Jendee and local authorities

Caribbean CPD seminars target local compliance and education

Hochiki has reported that it will partner with Jendee Trading to deliver a programme of educational seminars and customer events across four Caribbean nations in May 2025.

According to Hochiki, the initiative will focus on region-specific fire safety education, incorporating local legal requirements and involving the participation of Electrical Inspectorates in St. Vincent, St. Lucia, Trinidad, and Grenada.

The sessions will be tailored for a wide range of professionals, including engineers, insurers, and building owners, and aim to strengthen understanding of both international standards and island-specific regulations.

Programme to address island-specific regulations

Hochiki Europe stated that the joint team will visit the Caribbean from 4 to 22 May 2025, delivering events in St. Vincent, St. Lucia, Trinidad, and Grenada.

The company said the seminars will include contributions from each island’s Electrical Inspectorate to ensure that guidance aligns with national laws and frameworks.

The tour will focus on fire detection system design, false alarm reduction, and building compliance across industries such as tourism, food production, healthcare, and technology.

Accredited training contextualised for Caribbean professionals

Hochiki explained that two accredited Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses will be delivered during the initiative.

The training covers BS 5839 Part 1 Code of Practice for Fire Detection System Design and methods for reducing false alarms.

Both courses will be contextualised to the legal environment of each host country and will involve input from local Electrical Inspectorates to highlight specific regional requirements.

Industry collaboration highlights long-term commitment

Richard Wharram from Hochiki Europe said: “We are incredibly enthusiastic about engaging with our customers, both new and existing, across the Caribbean.

“Sharing the stage with our esteemed colleagues from Jendee, whose deep regional expertise is unmatched, is a privilege.

“Furthermore, the active involvement of the local Electrical Inspectorates is paramount, ensuring our educational content is directly relevant to local regulations.

“Attendees will greatly benefit from this comprehensive approach, gaining valuable insights into design support, in-depth product knowledge, technical training, and commissioning assistance, ultimately contributing to safer and more compliant installations within their communities.”

Debbie Marsh from Jendee said: “Our five decades of experience in the Caribbean have taught us the vital importance of working closely with local authorities.

“Partnering with Hochiki Europe and, crucially, with the Electrical Inspectorates in each island, allows us to deliver training that is not only informative but also directly relevant to the legal and regulatory frameworks.

“This collaborative effort is key to building trusted partnerships and ensuring the highest standards of fire safety across the region.”

Shinsuke Kubo, Managing Director of Hochiki Europe, said: “Establishing strong and trusted partnerships within the Caribbean region is fundamental to Hochiki Europe’s long-term commitment.

“By working in close conjunction with Jendee and, most importantly, with the local Electrical Inspectorates, we are demonstrating our dedication to ensuring that our knowledge and expertise are applied in a way that is fully compliant with local laws and regulations.

“This unified approach is crucial for building a safer and more resilient future for the Caribbean.”

Hochiki delivers regional fire safety seminars with Jendee and local authorities: Summary

Hochiki has announced a series of fire safety seminars in partnership with Jendee Trading across four Caribbean nations in May 2025.

The events will take place in St. Vincent, St. Lucia, Trinidad, and Grenada.

Each seminar will involve presentations by the local Electrical Inspectorate.

Two CPD courses will be delivered: BS 5839 Part 1 and False Alarm Reduction.

Courses will be contextualised to match the regulatory frameworks of each host nation.

Seminars will be aimed at engineers, insurers, building owners, and fire safety professionals.

Hochiki said the programme supports knowledge-sharing around international and local safety standards.

The company stated that the initiative is designed to support safer and more compliant fire safety installations in the region.

Jendee Trading said the approach reflects its experience working closely with Caribbean authorities.

Hochiki’s Managing Director said the partnership supports long-term regional engagement and regulatory alignment.

Hochiki fire detection system installed at new West Sussex care home

Hochiki system supports fire safety at Merriman Grange

Hochiki has provided a new fire detection and alarm system for Merriman Grange, a newly opened care home in Worthing, West Sussex.

According to Hochiki, the project involved collaboration with Southern Fire Alarms to install a full L1 category system across the three-storey building.

The care home, which includes a dementia care unit, required technology that could accommodate vulnerable residents while ensuring full coverage and integration with the site’s building management systems.

Full L1 coverage installed throughout the care facility

Southern Fire Alarms was responsible for designing and installing the fire safety system as part of the care home’s new build.

Hochiki’s ESP range was selected as the main technology used for the installation.

Naomi Fell of Southern Fire Alarms said: “When it comes to reliability and ease of installation, Hochiki is our go-to manufacturer. Their ESP range of addressable products are consistently high-quality, and their integration capabilities are second to none.”

She added: “For a complex project like Merriman Grange, where we needed a robust and dependable system that also considered the specific needs of dementia residents, Hochiki was the perfect choice.”

Adapted fire alarms help minimise stress for dementia residents

The care home includes a dedicated unit for dementia care, which posed particular requirements in terms of alarm functionality.

Devices were selected based on their capacity to adjust alarm tones and volumes, in order to reduce the risk of causing distress to residents with dementia.

According to Hochiki, their equipment allowed the fire detection system to be tailored in a way that supported the wellbeing of residents while maintaining effective alerting.

Integration and usability considered throughout the installation

The Hochiki ESP range was chosen in part for its ability to integrate with building management systems.

This was seen as essential for the overall functionality of Merriman Grange, ensuring building services operated efficiently together.

Naomi Fell said: “Their devices are designed to minimise false alarms and provide clear, reliable warnings, which is crucial in a care home environment. We know that with Hochiki, we’re providing our clients with the best possible protection.”

Fire alarm installation enhances care home safety in Worthing: Summary

Hochiki provided a fire detection and alarm system for Merriman Grange care home in Worthing.

Southern Fire Alarms installed the full L1 category system during the home’s construction.

The ESP range was selected for its compatibility, ease of installation and capacity to adjust alarm outputs.

The system was adapted for a dementia care unit using adjustable tones and volumes to minimise distress.

All areas of the three-storey building are covered by the system, including private and communal spaces.

The system is integrated with the building’s management infrastructure.

The installation aimed to support ease of use for staff and reduce the likelihood of false alarms.

Naomi Fell of Southern Fire Alarms said Hochiki was selected for reliability and product quality.

Hochiki ESP system installed at KL Logistic warehouse in Slovakia

Fire detection system installed at 17,000m² Slovakian facility

Hochiki has reported that its ESP intelligent fire detection system has been installed at a new logistics facility in Slovakia.

The 17,000 square metre warehouse, operated by KL Logistic near Galanta, required a tailored fire safety system due to its large scale and the nature of its high-rack storage.

Fire protection specialist Pro Metheus Slovakia oversaw the design and installation of the detection and evacuation system, which features Hochiki’s ESP range and FIRElink aspirating smoke detection system.

ESP devices and aspirating system support early fire detection

Hundreds of Hochiki ESP optical smoke detectors were installed throughout the warehouse to provide early warning in the event of fire.

Hochiki’s FIRElink aspirating smoke detection system was also installed to cover areas where conventional smoke detectors may be less effective, such as dense storage racks and hard-to-access sections.

These systems are networked using Hochiki’s Enhanced System Protocol (ESP), creating a coordinated detection solution across the entire facility.

Control panels and modules integrated with fire suppression system

Central control and monitoring is managed via Hochiki HFP control panels connected through the ESP protocol.

Input and output modules from Hochiki were also installed to integrate the fire detection system with the building’s sprinkler infrastructure.

This configuration enables automated responses in case of a fire, linking detection and suppression through a single coordinated system.

Voice evacuation included for personnel safety

In addition to detection and suppression systems, a voice evacuation solution was implemented across the site.

This enables timely communication with on-site personnel and supports safe evacuation procedures during an emergency.

Tibor Lelkes, CEO of Pro Metheus Fire, said: “The scale and complexity of the KL Logistic warehouse demanded a fire detection system that was both powerful and dependable.

“Hochiki’s comprehensive product portfolio, coupled with their sophisticated networking capabilities, enabled us to design a solution that precisely met the client’s specific requirements.

“The inclusion of the voice evacuation system was a key factor in providing KL Logistic with complete peace of mind.

“We are proud to have delivered a system that significantly enhances the safety of their employees and protects their valuable assets.”

Hochiki ESP system installed at KL Logistic warehouse in Slovakia: Summary

Hochiki has confirmed that its ESP intelligent fire detection system has been deployed at a 17,000 square metre KL Logistic warehouse near Galanta, Slovakia.

Fire safety contractor Pro Metheus Slovakia managed the design and installation.

The system includes hundreds of ESP optical smoke detectors and a FIRElink aspirating smoke detection system for inaccessible areas.

Hochiki’s HFP control panels and ESP modules have been used to link the detection and sprinkler systems.

A voice evacuation system has also been integrated.

All components are networked using Hochiki’s ESP protocol.

Fire safety training and detection systems presented by Hochiki at Fire Safety Event

Hochiki outlines commitment to fire protection at NEC Birmingham

Hochiki is participating in the Fire Safety Event 2025, held at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham.

The company is showcasing its fire detection and emergency lighting technologies alongside its training and professional development services.

The Fire Safety Event, which concludes today, is expected to attract more than 12,000 professionals including fire safety officers, building managers, architects and engineers.

Shinsuke Kubo, Managing Director of Hochiki Europe, said: “The Fire Safety Event is an essential fixture for anyone serious about fire safety.

“It provides a crucial platform for industry professionals to come together, share best practices, and witness the latest innovations that are shaping the future of fire protection.”

Fire detection and emergency lighting systems on display

Hochiki is exhibiting several products at its stand, including the Latitude fire control system, the Ekho hybrid wireless range and the newly launched FIREscape Nepto emergency lighting system.

Company representatives from across the UK and Europe are available to explain product features and training options.

Visitors can also take part in a competition hosted at the stand for a chance to win Amazon vouchers.

Mr Kubo said: “The Fire Safety Event is far more than just a trade show; it is a critical assembly point for the fire safety community.

“Here, we unite to exchange vital knowledge, forge crucial partnerships, and collectively drive the development of solutions that will directly enhance the safety and well-being of communities across the globe.”

Fire safety training academy marks one-year milestone

Hochiki is using the event to promote its Training Academy, launched in February 2024, which aims to equip professionals with skills for effective fire system operation and maintenance.

The academy provides both in-person sessions at the company’s UK headquarters and an online platform with practical modules covering a range of topics.

Mr Kubo said: “Comprehensive training is paramount for ensuring the effective implementation and maintenance of fire safety systems.

“Our training facilities at Hochiki HQ, alongside our online Training Academy, deliver hands-on, practical training covering a broad spectrum of topics.”

UK and Europe remain key markets for Hochiki

Hochiki reports over 100 years of operation in the fire detection and emergency lighting industry, with activity across the UK, Europe, the Middle East and other regions.

The company attributes its longevity to an ongoing focus on customer engagement, research and development, and system reliability.

Mr Kubo said: “We understand that fire safety extends beyond mere products; it’s fundamentally about safeguarding lives and livelihoods.

“Therefore, we invest heavily in research and development, continuously striving to create solutions that are not only highly effective but also user-friendly in terms of installation, maintenance, and operation.”

Fire safety training and detection systems presented by Hochiki at NEC Birmingham: Summary

Hochiki has taken part in the Fire Safety Event 2025, held at the NEC in Birmingham, UK.

The event is expected to draw over 12,000 attendees.

Hochiki is presenting its Latitude fire control system, Ekho wireless devices and FIREscape Nepto emergency lighting system.

The company is also highlighting its Training Academy, which was launched in February 2024.

The academy offers in-person and online training sessions on fire system design, installation and maintenance.

Hochiki representatives from across the UK and Europe are attending.

Visitors can engage with training materials, register for courses and take part in an on-stand competition.

The company’s Managing Director, Shinsuke Kubo, emphasised the importance of collaboration and education in improving fire safety.

Hochiki continues to operate across Europe, the Middle East and beyond, and states that its focus remains on developing user-friendly, reliable systems supported by professional education.

Hochiki ESP system installed at AU Vodka Swansea HQ

Fire detection installed at AU Vodka’s newly built headquarters in Wales

Hochiki has reported that a Hochiki ESP addressable fire detection system has been installed at AU Vodka’s new two-storey headquarters in Swansea.

The system was installed by H3 Group, a South Wales-based fire and security contractor.

It covers both office and recreational areas of the headquarters, which houses over 150 employees.

AU Vodka’s facility includes kitchen and communal spaces, a mini golf course, and a maze.

The fire safety solution was selected to meet the building’s varied layout and visual design requirements.

Fire detection system selected for aesthetic and technical compatibility

According to Hochiki, the ESP addressable range was chosen for its reliability and design.

Simon Goneso of H3 Group said: “When we secured the AU Vodka contract, it was clear that we needed a fire safety solution that mirrored the brand’s commitment to quality and design.

“Hochiki’s ESP addressable range emerged as the ideal choice.

“We have consistently found their devices to be exceptionally reliable, which is crucial in minimising the risk of false alarms within a busy and dynamic environment like AU Vodka’s headquarters.

“The ease of installation and maintenance offered by Hochiki’s systems is also a significant advantage for our engineers.”

H3 Group highlighted the system’s compatibility with the architectural design of the building.

Hochiki stated the devices offer high performance while remaining visually unobtrusive.

Full building network coverage required for two-floor site

Hochiki stated that the two-floor configuration of the building required full networking capabilities to ensure consistent protection throughout the site.

The ESP system was installed to ensure uninterrupted coverage across all zones.

This includes traditional office spaces as well as non-standard facilities such as the golf course and maze.

Hochiki reported that the system allows for seamless communication and control across both floors of the headquarters.

H3 Group selected as installer due to long-standing relationship with manufacturer

Hochiki stated that H3 Group was chosen to carry out the installation based on their previous experience with the manufacturer’s products.

H3 Group has worked with Hochiki Europe on other projects and recommended the ESP system based on past performance.

The project required a solution that offered both safety and minimal disruption to the building’s interior design.

Hochiki’s addressable devices were selected to meet this dual requirement.

Hochiki ESP system installed at AU Vodka Swansea HQ: Summary

Hochiki has reported that its ESP addressable fire detection system was installed at AU Vodka’s new headquarters in Swansea.

The system was installed by South Wales-based contractor H3 Group.

The two-floor building includes recreational facilities as well as traditional office spaces.

The ESP system was selected for its network reliability and compatibility with the visual design of the interior.

The building houses more than 150 staff members and required full fire detection coverage across all areas.

H3 Group stated that the reliability and ease of installation of Hochiki systems influenced their recommendation.

The system enables communication and control throughout both floors of the building.

AU Vodka’s headquarters features communal kitchen spaces, a mini golf course, and a maze.

Hochiki stated that the devices integrate with the building without affecting the overall look of the offices.

The installation was based on previous experience between Hochiki Europe and H3 Group.